Park and recreation departments are often at the heart of natural disasters. Recreation centers serve as shelters, parks serve as gathering places, and — most importantly — park and recreation employees and volunteers serve as aid workers, support staff and community leaders.
In a disaster, it is the people who can make all the difference. A recreation specialist’s kind words can soothe a scared child. An agency director can rally a community after the storm. But these people and places aren’t immune to the effects of adversities.
Right now in Louisiana, one-third of East Baton Rouge’s park and recreation employees are homeless—and that’s just one municipality. In California, parks are closed due to wildfires. In West Virginia, agencies are still recovering—some holding benefits to continue soliciting support for flood relief.
Natural disasters will continue to affect our field, but I encourage you now, in light of recent events, to support your colleagues across the country. Donate to the American Red Cross or directly to a park foundation in an area that is currently recovering from flood, fire or storm. We have strength in numbers, but our biggest strength is in our heart and character.
Thank you for making better communities and thank you in advance for supporting your colleagues across the country.
Sincerely,
Barbara Tulipane, CAE
NRPA President and CEO